Triumph to improve vital funds

English rugby will use the World Cup triumph to boost Twickenham's coffers and reverse the loss of players from the game.

The Rugby Football Union expect to see annual revenue rise from £65million to £80m and playing numbers up by five per cent by the end of the season.

Terry Burwell, RFU community rugby and operations director, said: "We have to make sure that the legacy of 2003 The confirmation that an England XV will play the New Zealand Barbarians at Twickenham next month will also boost funds.

The RFU were expecting to make a £3.5m loss this year but could now break even with new sponsorship deals.